Garowe, Somalia – May 5, 2025 – The Puntland Disability Organizations Network (PDON) concluded its landmark General Assembly meeting, setting a bold new course for disability inclusion in Somalia. Over three days (May 3-5), members ratified key governance changes, adopted a fresh strategic vision, and elected leaders to guide the organization through 2027.
Key Decisions & Outcomes
1. Leadership Transition
✅ New Executive Team Elected:
- Mr. Said Barre Khalaf – Executive Director
- Mr. Mohamed Mahamud Ali – Deputy Executive Director
✅ Board of Directors:
- Sheikh Abdinasir Gureye Karshe – Chairperson
- Eng. Abdirahman Yusuf Mahad – Deputy Chairperson
- 7 additional members elected to represent diverse disability constituencies
2. Strategic Roadmap Approved
📜 The 2025-2027 Strategic Plan focuses on:
- Strengthening advocacy for inclusive policies
- Expanding community-based rehabilitation programs
- Enhancing partnerships with government and NGOs
3. Governance Reforms
✍️ Constitutional Amendments ratified to:
- Improve membership representation
- Streamline decision-making processes
- Align with global disability rights standards
What This Means for Puntland
The newly elected leadership takes office amid growing momentum for disability inclusion in Somalia. With the adopted strategic plan, PDON aims to:
🔹 Scale up its work in education and employment access
🔹 Deepen engagement with regional authorities on CRPD implementation
🔹 Launch new initiatives for women and youth with disabilities
“Our revised constitution and strategy position PDON to be more effective than ever,” emphasized incoming ED Said Barre Khalaf. “The next three years will be about delivering tangible change.”
